Motor Vehicle students triumph in skills competition

Oliver Young, won Gold, while Jack Johnston was Highly Commended representing UHI Perth at the 2023 Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Skills Competition.

Oliver and Jack, both apprentices working for J&R Auto Services were in the Light Vehicle Technology category following a year-long application and assessment process. The medal ceremony saw the biggest ever entry from all four UK nations and finalists may go forward to the World Skills International competition to be held in Lyon in September 2024.

Richard Hutchins, Competitions Manager at the Institute of the Motor Industry explained: “The IMI Skills Competition has been a huge success once again, highlighting some extraordinary talent from across the UK. Having been nominated by their tutor or employer, each competitor completed an online quiz, took part in a one-day practical national qualifier and underwent training days and employer visits. The finalists then attended a two-day practical live final for World Skills UK, completing their final six tasks in front of a team of volunteer judges.

“The programmes enhance the practical skills and knowledge taught on training courses by assessing an individual’s employability attributes. It has a real impact on those taking part, with 90% of previous entrants saying their career progression improved after competing, and 86% stating their personal and employability skills had improved.”